GiocAbile is a sensory-motor PC game specifically tailored for children with neuromotor disabilities like CP. The name “GiocAbile” is a blend of the Italian words “gioco” (play) and “abile” (able). The combination of these terms conveys the idea of a video game that is both enjoyable and accessible, particularly for individuals with CP. Indeed, GiocAbile addresses the need for both rehabilitation and integration of children with CP, offering an enabling and inclusive gaming experience. GiocAbile can be played while sitting on a chair, in a wheelchair or standing, depending on preference and ability. The GiocAbile system comprises both software (the video game) and hardware components (PhiCube and PlayCuff).
Team: 2 Game Programmer, 2 Game Designers + external team for hardware
My Role: Game Programmer
Game Engine: Unity Engine
Genre: Platform + Mini games
Gaming platform: PC, Xbox
My Role in this project was as unity developer, mainly focused on the creation of the mini games. We developed the software based on the request of the customer and the game design department to create the games they had in mind for rehabilitation focusing also on fun.
One of our challenges was to create a system to handle different kind of input peripherals. The game needed to work with a normal xbox controller and with specialized hardware without compromising the usability and fun, requiring the development of a dedicated input subsystem.
The game is designed to be played cooperatively with children with neuromotor disabilities and their peers on equal footing, fostering shared experiences and opportunities.
Giocabile features a collection of game activities stimulating various motor and cognitive abilities, with the possibility of a multiplayer mode focused on cooperative, non-competitive, gameplay.
The video game features an island structure consisting of a series of platform games where the player must navigate through different levels of increasing difficulty, each set in unique environments, such as the Jungle or Lands of ice. These platform games are interspersed with minigames grouped according to specific body functions, which vary in difficulty levels, ranging from simple segmental movements to more complex articulated motions . The final challenge is the assembly of a crystal, where the participant must piece together crystal fragments like a puzzle.
Gameplay example
Gameplay example